Recreation site could enhance cricket club’s training facilities

Wavertree Cricket Club could use part of the nearby Sandown Park Recreation Area to enhance its training facilities.

The proposal, which would see the club lease the open space from Liverpool City Council for a 30-year peppercorn rent, is to be discussed by the local authority’s cabinet on Friday (2 September).

If given the go ahead the club, which already occupies premises on the opposite side of Long Lane, would use the plot for an additional training and cricket nets area which would be fenced off.

According to a report to be discussed by cabinet members, the disposal of this section of the recreation area would generate “less than best price” compared to if it were sold on the open market, however it could bring other wellbeing and social wellbeing positives.

Highlighting potential benefits, the report says: “More revenue income will be generated by the club for re-investment within its own facilities.”

It also suggests: “Social and community inclusion through access to a new facility and encouraging overall health and wellbeing through physical activity to those who play and watch cricket for the club.”

As it looks to allay fears over loss of public open space, the council has clarified that the move would equate to less than 2% of landtake which would be reinstated at the end of the 30-year term, and existing football pitches would be untouched by the plans. The gated and fenced ‘dog walking area’ at the site is also unaffected.

The cabinet report goes on to suggest: “The proposal supports the priority outline by the Mayor to make the city healthier.

“The proposal enhances the existing facility of Wavertree Cricket Club and enables the community to access a training facility for all levels of ability encouraging social and community inclusion.”

Wavertree Cricket Club was granted planning consent earlier this year to lay an artificial surface and install a three bay cricket facility with associated cage and netting at the site, along with a security fence.